World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) is observed every year on 17 May, the day highlights how resilient networks, cloud platforms, data centres, and digital ecosystems are shaping inclusive, secure, and AI-ready economies. World Telecommunication and Information Society Day has become more relevant than ever in an era shaped by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital-first economies. What began as a commemoration of global telecommunications history is now a timely reminder that connectivity is no longer a background utility. Modern economies, public services, and enterprises increasingly depend on it. From fibre networks and 5G infrastructure to satellites, data…
Author: Editorial Team
The Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) has activated an intensified operational plan at the Grand Mosque, deploying a massive fleet of medical resources to ensure the safety of worshippers and visitors. To handle high-density crowds and ensure rapid response times, SRCA has stationed more than 270 ambulance units across Makkah and the central area. The authority’s specialized fleet consists of 58 standard ambulances, 23 ambulance golf carts, and 12 rapid intervention teams. For maneuvering through crowded passageways and high-density areas, SRCA is also utilizing ambulance motorcycles, scooters, and electric vehicles. More than 570 paramedics, technicians, and specialists, supported by health…
TEHRAN — Iran has developed a mechanism to regulate maritime traffic through a designated route in the Strait of Hormuz and plans to impose fees for “specialized services” provided under the system, a senior Iranian lawmaker said on Saturday. Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, said only commercial vessels and parties cooperating with Iran would benefit from the planned arrangement. “In this process, only commercial vessels and parties cooperating with Iran will benefit from it,” Azizi wrote on X. He added that Tehran would soon unveil the details of the plan, warning that…
LONDON — The Embassy of Saudi Arabia in the United Kingdom has urged all Saudi citizens to exercise caution and stay away from gatherings in London. In a statement issued on Friday, the Embassy said: “Demonstrations are expected to take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in several areas. We urge everyone to exercise caution, adhere to the instructions of local authorities, and avoid gatherings and demonstrations for your safety.” The embassy pointed out that in case of any emergency, the citizens should contact directly on the unified number for Saudi affairs (00447799519495). The Saudi Embassy’s advisory came amid reports…
Rafha, May 15, 2026, SPA — The deserts of Rafha have seen a significant resurgence of spiny-tailed lizards, signaling ecological recovery in Northern Borders Region. This return to natural habitats follows a decline in overhunting and environmental pressures, aided by rising temperatures and seasonal vegetation growth. Experts attribute this recovery to strict environmental enforcement by the Special Forces for Environmental Security and increased public awareness regarding wildlife preservation. These combined efforts have effectively reduced poaching and stabilized local biodiversity. As diurnal herbivores, these lizards play a critical role in the desert ecosystem by aerating soil and improving rainwater infiltration through…
BANGKOK — Thailand has urged Iran to ensure the safe passage of eight Thai-flagged vessels stranded near the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing restrictions in the strategic waterway, Thai media reported. The request was made by Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi on Thursday, according to the Thai Enquirer news website. During the discussions, Sihasak expressed concern over the escalating Middle East conflict and its global economic impact, particularly navigation restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, where vessels from several…
NEW YORK — Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Wasel emphasized the critical importance of protecting maritime routes and freedom of navigation, specifically in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, as pillars for international supply chains. He reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to global market stability, sustainable development, and ensuring reliable energy flows to support the global economy. Al-Wasel made the remarks while addressing the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Special Meeting on “Safeguarding energy and supply flows: Supporting global development through international cooperation” in New York. Al-Wasel condemned attacks on energy infrastructure andcivilian…
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has approved the registration of Etcamah (camizestrant) for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer with an ESR1 gene mutation that emerges during first-line hormonal therapy, in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitors. This approval sets a pioneering precedent for SFDA among leading global regulatory authorities, reflecting the its commitment to accelerating patient access to innovative therapeutic options through the Breakthrough Medicine Program. Etcamah (camizestrant) is an oral selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) and a complete estrogen receptor antagonist. It acts…
JEDDAH — Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman held on Friday a phone call with Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. During the call, the leaders reviewed bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Qatar and discussed areas of cooperation between the two countries. They also reviewed regional and international developments, the evolving situation in the region, and ongoing efforts to enhance security and stability. Source: Saudi Gazette
RIYADH — Saudi Grand Mufti and President of the Council of Senior Scholars Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan has urged Muslims to increase their righteous deeds and worship, such as prayer, charity, fasting, and frequent remembrance of Allah during the blessed first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah. He highlighted the Prophetic Traditions that indicate that righteous deeds performed during these days are more beloved to God Almighty than deeds performed at any other time. “Muslims should strive to increase their righteous deeds during these days, while being diligent in performing obligatory acts of worship and avoiding sins. These ten days are a…